From corn to flower wasteland: Christoph Blattmann's flowering experiment in Gundelfingen

From corn to flower wasteland: Christoph Blattmann's flowering experiment in Gundelfingen

in Gundelfingen, directly in the Breisgau-Hochschwarzwald district, farmer Christoph Blattmann has taken a remarkable step. Instead of the typical corn culture, which he once built, he has now created a diverse flower wasteland. Over 40 different plant species, including domestic flowers such as the flowering wild carrots and shining gossip poppies, are now adorning its fields. This change is not only a question of personal commitment to nature, but also an economic decision.

So far, Blattmann had generated his earnings primarily with corn, which he needed as a feed. About a year and a half ago, however, he ceased his dairy farm, which gave him the opportunity to alternatively use his fields. He created this flower meadow on about two hectares of his eleven hectare area. "It's strange because you could also grow valuable food," explains Blattmann. But the increasing challenges through hot summer and difficult harvesting conditions make the flower wasteland an attractive option for him.

economic advantages of the flower wasteland

A decisive advantage for Blattmann is the financial support from the state. He receives around 1,000 euros per hectare annually to maintain his flower wasteland. This funding exceeds the amounts that he would achieve from a classic grain or corn harvest. So it is not only an environmentally friendly measure, but also an economically profitable decision. "It is less risk and less effort associated with it," he says.

The flower wasteland represents a form of agriculture that promotes the preservation of biodiversity. Reinhold driver, biologist and head of the Breisgau-Hochschwarzwald agricultural conservation association, supports such projects and would like to motivate more farmers to create similar areas. So far, only 40 hectares of such areas have been funded throughout the district, while the entire agricultural area is around 53,000 hectares. Drivers emphasized that from an ecological point of view, about six to ten percent of the area should be broke in order to give endangered species such as quails and auer chickens.

• flower wasteland: important for biodiversity
• over 30 percent of wild bees and butterflies are threatened
• Legal requirements could increase the number of flower areas

The explanation for this important environmental measure also lies in the alarming statistics: over 30 percent of hay and catch frames as well as many wild bee species and butterflies are either extinct or are considered to be endangered. In view of these facts, the flowering breaks, like that of Blattmann, counteract another hazard. The local population is pleased with the colorful play of colors in the fields; It is a sight that also positively influences the image of agriculture.

long -term perspective for Blattmann

The contract of Christoph Blattmann for this special use of his space is still running for three to five years. After this time, he may plan to switch back to wheat. However, the decision to transform the fields into a flower wasteland shows how flexibly farmers can react to changing conditions. With a unique mix of seeds of only six kilograms, which forms the basis for its flowering landscape, he has already made numerous plants to bloom that only need minimal care.

Blattmann's decision is also reflected in a larger trend within agriculture, towards more sustainable cultivation methods. The question remains how many farmers will follow him. The success of the project could influence the future of agriculture in the Breisgau-Hochschwarzwald and beyond.

background of the flower wasteland

The idea of ​​the flower wasteland is closely associated with environmental policy goals that promote the preservation of biodiversity. Agricultural areas often offer a habitat for many animal and plant species that are threatened by intensive agricultural practices. In order to counteract this, many farmers rely on flowering. These areas are not used for the production of food or feed, but serve as a retreat for beneficials and as habitats for endangered species. The European and national support framework supports these approaches by receiving financial incentives.

In Germany, the ecological challenges are particularly pronounced. The loss of biodiversity is often associated with the intensification of agriculture. Programs are initiated in various regions to promote sustainable management methods and regenerate lost habitats. Initiatives such as those of Christoph Blattmann in Gundelfingen are part of a greater movement towards more ecological agriculture.

Current statistics on biodiversity

In addition, surveys among farmers in Germany show that about 60 percent of those surveyed indicate that their views on biodiversity have changed in recent years. A growing part of farmers recognizes the need to take into account ecological aspects in addition to pure food production in order to ensure the long -term sustainability of their companies.